Insect Defense

For insects, danger lurks everywhere. Insects are eaten by many animals, yet they thrive. INSECT DEFENSE explores strategies insects use to keep from being eaten. Masters of deception, insects use camouflage to disappear into the environment. They use bright colors and bold patterns to warn enemies that they are poisonous or sting. Harmless insects are protected by mimicking harmful insects. Large eyespots fool birds into thinking insects are larger and more dangerous than they really are. Stinging hairs inflict searing pain. Foul-smelling horns erupt from caterpillar heads to scare away predators.Stunning close-up video and a clear narration help viewers understand the concepts. You are challenged to find hidden insects and to guess which of two insects are poisonous or sting. INSECT DEFENSE will open your eyes to the life and death struggle all around us. Because most of the footage was shot in the US, you will be able to find many of these insects — even in your own backyard.Content covers the following topics: CAMOUFLAGE, WARNING COLORS, MIMICRY, EYESPOTS, POSTURE REVERSAL, HAIRS, SPINES, AND BRISTLES, MORE THAN ONE DEFENSE MECHANSISM, NO DEFENSE IS PERFECT, AND CAST OF ANIMALS.INSECT DEFENSE was produced by Dr. Ron Goor, creator of the Smithsonian’s Insect Zoo, the first live insect zoo in the U.S. INSECT DEFENSE provides eye-opening, educational video for children and adults.